The Nation State: A Wrong Model for the Horn of Africa?

"The Nation State: A Wrong Model for the Horn of Africa?" edited by John Markakis, Günther Schlee, and John Young, critically examines the suitability of the nation-state model in the Horn of Africa, a region characterized by its ethnic diversity and colonial-imposed borders. The book explores the persistent conflicts and governance challenges in countries like Ethiopia, Somalia, and Sudan. It argues that the rigid nation-state model fails to accommodate the region's complex social fabric, often exacerbating tensions and hindering effective governance. The authors propose alternative political frameworks, such as federalism or decentralized governance, that might better manage diversity and promote peace and development in the region.